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Weather Comparison

New York vs Paris

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

New York: 4°CParis: 7°C5,837 km apart

January Weather: New York vs Paris

MetricNew YorkParisBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer4°C (39°F)7°C (45°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder-4°C (25°F)2°C (36°F)Paris
Rain DaysFewer is drier9 days12 daysNew York
PrecipitationLess is drier83 mm52 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day4h/dayNew York
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better19 km/h20 km/hNew York

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, New York edges ahead as the better destination in January. New York offers 7 hours of daily sunshine with only 9 rain days, while Paris sees 4 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

New York is on the cooler side at 4°C, requiring warmer clothing. Paris is cooler at 7°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, New York is the stronger choice in January. New York receives 3 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

New York reaches an average high of 4°C (39°F) and drops to -4°C (25°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Paris averages 7°C (45°F) for the high and 2°C (36°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

New York receives approximately 83 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Paris sees 52 mm over 12 rain days. That makes New York the drier option by 3 rain days and 31 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: New York vs Paris

Packing for New York in January

Highs of 4°C, lows of -4°C, 9 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Paris in January

Highs of 7°C, lows of 2°C, 12 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: New York vs Paris

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthNew YorkParis
HighRainHighRain
Jan4°C9d7°C12d
Feb5°C9d8°C10d
Mar9°C10d12°C11d
Apr15°C11d15°C11d
May21°C11d19°C11d
Jun26°C11d22°C10d
Jul29°C12d24°C10d
Aug28°C11d24°C9d
Sep24°C9d21°C8d
Oct18°C9d16°C11d
Nov12°C8d11°C11d
Dec6°C10d7°C12d
4°

New York Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

7°

Paris Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York warmer than Paris in January?
No. In January, Paris is warmer with an average high of 7°C (45°F) compared to New York at 4°C (39°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, New York or Paris?
Paris gets more rain in January with 12 rain days and 83 mm of precipitation. New York is the drier option with 9 rain days.
Is it better to visit New York or Paris in January?
It depends on your preferences. New York averages 4°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 9 rain days. Paris averages 7°C with 4 sunshine hours and 12 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Paris. For drier weather, New York is the better pick.
How far apart are New York and Paris?
New York and Paris are approximately 5,837 km (3,625 miles) apart. New York is located in United States (North America) while Paris is in France (Europe).
What is the best month to visit New York and Paris?
For New York, July tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 29°C. For Paris, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare New York and Paris in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

New York coordinates: 40.71°N, -74.01°E | Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E